Can I Throw a Printer in the Trash? | Shop.ViaTeK

An image of a printer is depicted in an office setting

When your printer stops working or gets replaced by a newer model, it’s tempting to just toss it in the trash. But many people ask the same question first: Can I throw a printer in the trash? The short answer is no, and in many states, it’s illegal. Printers contain electronics, plastics, and chemicals that require special handling—and that’s where Shop.ViaTeK comes in.

Our mail-in electronics recycling service makes it easy to dispose of old printers from your home, small office, or remote workspace—no drop-off centers or bulk pickups required.

Why Printers Shouldn’t Go in the Trash

Toxic Materials
Printers are built with parts that include lead solder, toner dust, and plastic housings. If sent to a landfill, these can contaminate local water and soil.

Local and State Regulations
Many U.S. states, including California, New York, and Illinois, ban electronics—including printers—from being put in the regular trash. Our process helps you stay compliant, wherever you live.

Clutter and Safety
Old electronics can become fire hazards or take up unnecessary space in your home or office.

Sustainable Practices
Printer recycling supports e-waste reduction, material recovery, and responsible consumption.

What Our Service Includes

1. Easy Online Setup
Tell us what you want to recycle using our online form. We’ll confirm eligibility and send you a shipping label.

2. Prepaid Shipping
 We’ll ship you a box and prepaid return label. Have more than one printer or device? You can order multiple boxes or contact us for box size options.

3. Secure Processing
 We wipe or destroy data on applicable devices and process every printer through certified partners.

4. Responsible Recycling
 Materials are dismantled and recycled through environmentally certified facilities. Nothing goes to a landfill.

What We Accept

  • Inkjet and laser printers
  • All-in-one printers and MFDs
  • Scanners, fax machines, and label printers
  • Toner and cartridges (must be sealed or packaged safely)
  • Small electronics from the same box
A visual icon of a printer against a red background.

Who Can Use This Service?

  • Homeowners: Recycle from home—no need to find an e-waste event.
  • Small Business Owners: Send out-of-use equipment without a bulk service.
  • Remote Employees: Clear out old tech from your home office securely.
  • Students or DIYers: Drop the clutter and recycle that old printer safely.

Why Shop.ViaTeK?

  • No minimums required
  • Mail-in recycling from anywhere
  • Live support if you need help choosing the right box
  • No resale or payout—just safe, certified recycling
  • Support for multiple boxes per shipment

Start Recycling Today

If you’ve been asking, “Can I throw a printer in the trash?”, the answer is no—but the solution is simple. Let Shop.ViaTeK help you do the right thing.

Back to blog

Leave a comment